Innovation Wānanga

Join our monthly innovative wānanga, a space to foster whakawhanaungatanga, networking, and manaakitanga.

Featuring a range of inspiring guest speakers, the wananga is designed for students of all faculties to learn about innovation and entrepreneurship through a Te Ao Māori lens. Open to Māori students and others eager to grow. Be part of this exciting journey, plant your feet, and connect with the CIE whānau. Nau mai, haere mai!

Your opportunity:

Learning from experts: Gain inspiration and practical knowledge from guest speakers who share their entrepreneurial journeys and expertise.

Networking & whakawhanaungatanga: Build meaningful connections with other Māori students and like-minded individuals interested in innovation and entrepreneurship.

Cultural insights: Explore the I&E ecosystem through a Te Ao Māori lens

Explore CIE Offerings: Discover wider CIE programmes, resources, and opportunities to further your entrepreneurial journey.

Learning outcomes:

• Explore the Māori innovation ecosystem – Gain insights into Aotearoa’s entrepreneurial landscape through real-world examples and kōrero with experienced Māori innovators.
  

• Understand key entrepreneurial concepts – Engage in informal, discussion-based activities that introduce fundamental ideas in innovation and entrepreneurship.
  

• Grow your confidence in idea generation – Develop your capability to create, exchange, and refine ideas, fostering collective learning and growth.

Timing and commitment:

One-off monthly sessions. Register for each session.

March 5 – 5:30pm-7pm
March 26 – 5:30-7pm
May 7 – 5:30-7pm
May 21 – 5:30-7pm
August 12 – Kurutao Showcase
September 17th - Pō Whakanui – Wrap up celebration for the year

Speakers:

Professor Jason Mika (Ngāi Tūhoe, Ngāti Awa, Te Whakatōhea, Ngāti Kahungunu)

Session Date: May 21

Professor Jason Mika is a leading expert in Māori business and management, renowned for his work in Indigenous entrepreneurship, economic development, and enterprise leadership.

Currently, he serves as Professor of Māori Management and Associate Dean Māori at the University of Auckland Business School, where he specialises in Māori and Indigenous business philosophy across key sectors such as trade, tourism, agribusiness, and the marine economy.

Professor Mika holds a PhD in Māori entrepreneurship from Massey University and has been internationally recognised through the Fulbright-Ngā Pae o Te Māramatanga Senior Scholar Award, which saw him undertake research at Stanford University and the University of Arizona.

His expertise extends beyond academia, having previously worked as a management consultant and policy analyst, influencing public policy in trade, environmental management, and economic development.

About the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship:

The Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship provides a world of opportunity to participants so that they can stand out and create value through innovative careers and start-up creation.

CIE is New Zealand’s leading University entrepreneurship centre, winning 12 international awards since 2020.